The Mexican American Film & Television Festival (MAFTF) will hold its fifth annual edition April 25–26 in Los Angeles, featuring over 200 submissions across feature films, documentaries, shorts, and vertical storytelling projects. The festival aims to elevate Mexican-American and Latino voices in entertainment through screenings, workshops, and networking opportunities.
Under the theme “Our Stories Must Be Told To Defy Adversity,” MAFTF serves as a platform for filmmakers and television creators to connect with industry decision-makers. Dr. Jose Luis Ruiz, President and Festival Director, emphasized the importance of storytelling in informing, healing, and resisting forces harming the community.
The festival will present 12 competitive awards, including Best Feature Film, Best Short Film, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Documentary, and Best Screenplay for Short. Special honors will be awarded to five individuals for their contributions to film and television.
Legendary actor, writer, and director Enrique Castillo will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for his decades-long career, with notable roles in El Norte, Blood In Blood Out, and Weeds. Annie Gonzalez, known for Gentefied, Flamin’ Hot, and the title role in Jenni, will receive the Illustrious Award for Outstanding Achievement in Acting. Mishel Prada, recognized for her lead role in Starz’s VIDA and Peacock’s The Continental, will be honored with the Illustrious Award for Trailblazer Excellence in Acting. Acclaimed television director Felix Alcala (Lone Star, 911) will receive the Trailblazer in Directing Award. Entertainment journalist Naibe Reynoso will be honored with the Excellence in Journalism Award.
The festival will also present the Excellence in Community-Minded Media Influence Award to two individuals for their impact through media and community advocacy. Awards will be presented by distinguished artists and industry leaders, including Linda Yvette Chavez, Diana Luna, Pepe Serna, Gilbert Vasquez, and Moctesuma Esparza.
As Latino representation in Hollywood continues to grow, MAFTF stands as an important platform for elevating the voices, talent, and creativity of storytellers shaping the future of film and television. For more information, visit https://www.maftf.org/.
